Come and See

The Second Sunday after Epiphany

In this Sunday’s first reading, from 1 Samuel, the following observation is made; “The word of the Lord was rare in those days; visions were not widespread.” This sets the stage for the story of the life of Samuel. God called Samuel to model what a life of faith and trust in God’s love and commandments looks like so that people who no longer knew God could “come and see” what a life of faith looks like. Similarly, Jesus’ first disciples are invited to “come and see” him so that the love and will of God could be made clear and faith could be born in their hearts. The life and faith of John Wesley will be used as an illustration of what this means at another time when “The word of the Lord was rare.”

WE GATHER FOR WORSHIP

Prelude: “Lo, How, a Rose E’er Blooming”, Johannes Brahms – “Alleluia! Song of Gladness”, 18th Century – “Sing With Joy”, 14th Century

Welcome and Announcements

Gathering Hymn: “Jesus Calls Us; o’er the Tumult”

Apostolic Greeting

Hymn of Praise

Prayer of the Day

First Reading: 1 Samuel 3:1-20

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

Choir Anthem: “The Work of Christmas”, Text by Howard Thurman, Music by Dan Forest

Children’s Time

Gospel Acclamation and Gospel: John 1:43-51

Sermon: “Come and See”, Pastor Dan Severson

Sermon Hymn: “Will You Come and Follow Me”

The Service of Holy Baptism

Prayers of Intercession

Offertory: “Sleep Softly, Softly, Beautiful Jesus”, Alsatian carol arr. by Herman Schroeder

Offering Response and Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction

Sending Hymn: “The First Noel”

Dismissal

Postlude: “Song for a New Year”, Gilbert M. Martin